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India 2025 Crackdown on Real-Money Gaming Apps

 

India 2025 Crackdown on Real-Money Gaming Apps

In August 2025, the Indian Parliament passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, marking one of the most significant shifts in the country’s gaming and digital entertainment industry. Unlike earlier bans that largely focused on Chinese-origin mobile games, this legislation directly targets real-money gaming (RMG) platforms, including fantasy sports and skill-based games that involve monetary stakes.

While the bill has received parliamentary approval, it will officially take effect after the President’s assent and subsequent notification in the Gazette of India. Once enacted, many popular platforms could face bans or heavy restrictions.



Real-Money Gaming Apps in the Spotlight

Some of the biggest names in India’s booming online gaming economy are under scrutiny. Platforms that may soon be restricted include:

  1.               Dream11 – India’s largest fantasy sports platform
  2. Mobile Premier League (MPL) – A hub for skill-based games and esports
  3. My11Circle – Popular fantasy cricket app
  4. RummyCircle (Games24x7) – Leading card game platform
  5. WinZO – Social gaming app with real-money contests
  6. GamesKraft (RummyCulture) – Online rummy provider
  7. KheloFantasy – Fantasy sports app
  8. Junglee Games – Known for rummy and card-based apps
  9. 99Games – Real-money gaming startup


These platforms collectively form a multi-billion-dollar industry, employing thousands and engaging millions of users. The proposed ban is expected to send shockwaves through India’s digital ecosystem.

Why Is India Targeting Real-Money Gaming?

According to Reuters, The Economic Times, Vijay Karnataka, and Reality Views, the government has cited multiple concerns behind the legislation:

  1. Addiction & Mental Health Risks – Widespread reports of financial stress, gambling-like behavior, and addiction among young players.
  2. Consumer Protection – Many players lose significant amounts of money due to misleading advertisements and aggressive marketing.
  3. Regulatory Gaps – Lack of a uniform framework for real-money gaming across states.
  4. Economic & Social Harm – The government believes unrestricted RMG platforms can lead to exploitation, especially among vulnerable groups.





Comparison with Previous Bans

Type of Game

Examples

Status

Chinese-origin mobile games

PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, Mobile Legends, Rules of Survival, Rise of Kingdoms, etc.

Banned between 2020–2022

Real-money gaming platforms

Dream11, MPL, RummyCircle, Junglee Games, KheloFantasy, etc.

Facing ban under 2025 legislation

Key Highlights & Implications

From Security to Addiction: Earlier bans (2020–2022) were driven by national security and data privacy concerns with Chinese apps. The 2025 legislation shifts focus to financial safety and consumer protection.
Industry Shake-Up: Real-money gaming contributes significantly to India’s startup ecosystem. A full ban could trigger job losses, reduced foreign investment, and legal battles. Legal Battles Ahead: Many companies are expected to challenge the law in courts, citing skill-based gaming distinctions. Rise of Regulation: Instead of outright bans, India may eventually adopt a licensing and compliance framework, similar to models in Europe.


The Road Ahead

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 signals India’s attempt to draw a clear line between casual gaming for entertainment and gaming for monetary stakes. While the law awaits final notification, the message is clear:
 The future of real-money gaming in India hangs in the balance.
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